My husband and I got a pocketful of credit cards sent to us when we graduated from college, and now three years later we're so far in debt I don't see how we'll ever get out. I know this isn't a spiritual issue, but do you have any suggestions for us? — Mrs. S.McM.

How we use (or misuse) our money actually is a spiritual issue, and the Bible has a great deal to say about money and how we should handle it. The way we use money is like a window into our souls, revealing what is really important to us.

You see, while money is a necessary part of life, the real question is this: Will we control our money, or will our money control us? Will money be our servant, or will it be our master? When we allow money to control us, we open the door to all kinds of trouble—including excess debt (as you've discovered). The Bible rightly warns that "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10).

Let me urge you first of all to stop and reexamine your priorities in life. What is really important to you? Comfort? Security? Success? Impressing others? Only you can answer this question, of course, but be honest about it.

Then ask yourself another question: What is most important in God's eyes? Jesus made it clear: "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). Begin by committing your lives to Christ, and put Him and His will first in everything. Then ask Him to help you to take practical steps to eliminate your debt by setting up a budget and paying back what you owe.